Monthly Archives: April 2014

Taco Tuesday is on regular rotation at Chez Peady and we always enjoy it. Sometimes the tacos are fancy, with my scrumptious – if I do say so myself – (and I do!) homemade guacamole. Sometimes it’s as basic as following the directions on a taco kit (name brand or otherwise). Sometimes they are filled with beef. Other times it’s chicken. Slow cooked or roasted. Simple and delicious. Even fish tacos are a hit ’round here! We just love tacos.

We try to change it up a little bit each time, so that we don’t grow tired of our Taco Tuesday tradition. There’re so many ways that a simple meal can be made interesting, and tacos are perfect for customization. From the fillings to the shells, to the toppings and the sauces, there’s a myriad of ways to make tacos – and to make them fun!

Tonight’s beef tacos were awesome! Nothing too fancy, but the ingredients were fresh, everyone was looking forward to dinner together, and everything turned out just right.

Yummy taco beef!

Crisp, fresh iceberg lettuce.

Greek yogurt, taco sauce & fresh, plump, Roma tomatoes.

Taco shells. Always heat them like this! Trust me.

I think these turned out to be picture perfect.

Can you see the nice layers? Can’t you practically taste them?

There’s a sad little underripe avocado back there.

So much deliciousness.

Om.

Nom.

NOM!

Thing 2 adding some Greek yogurt to her soft flour tortilla taco.

Thing 1 adding spicy taco sauce. The boy was made for spicy!

Yay! I get a taco! (So gooood!)

I think next Taco Tuesday we’ll try a vegetarian version made with Chickpeas. I know Thing 1 and Thing 2 will give them a try and very likely will enjoy them.

They’ll try anything! They’ve yet to turn up their noses at a single taco trick. From Beer Battered Haddock to Spaghetti*, from beef to books about the topic, I say “Tacos!” and they say “Si!” How lucky are we?

*You can find the awesome Taco Truck (and many other examples of awesome) pictured above here.

If you consider the following and think mainly about what R2-D2 is capable of accomplishing during a yoga class (hot, cold or otherwise) then you will have a pretty clear picture of what I looked like on Saturday.

Moksha Yoga in Bedford had an open house on Saturday April 26, 2014 as a way of celebrating their one year anniversary and offered FREE classes all day long. How amazing is that? I had been driving by their big billboard for a month or so and every time I’d think to myself, ‘I should really see if I can rope NS BFF into going with me to try a class.’ and then ‘SQUIRREL!’. The thought would vanish in a swirling cyclone of all the other more important or pressing things that actually needed doing and I’d be no closer to trying hot yoga. Until I’d drive by the giant billboard the next time and go through pretty much the exact same sequence. (Billboards work, by the way, in case that isn’t apparent, but I digress…)

Then out of the blue on the 24th my NS BFF sent me a link to the Open House schedule and once I opened that e-mail, it was a done deal. I *had* to do it!

Aren’t best friends just the best for the way they read our minds, dare us to be different and encourage us to step *way* outside of our comfort zones? I think so.

It’s a positive kind of peer pressure. I can’t say no and she can’t back out because she started it. Forget the fact that I have been threatening to rope her in – in my mind – for over a month. I’ll just let her think it was her idea and go along with it. *grins*

So it was decided we were definitely going to a class on Saturday, but then the trouble was deciding which class. I’ll spare you the ridiculousness we went through trying to decide. Honestly. It should not have been that complicated. We were tired last week. Let’s just leave it at that. Suffice it to say that at 8:30 (AM!) on Saturday we were headed to a yoga studio to take in our very first yoga class. It was a seventy-five minute class. Oh, and you should know it was also in a very hot room and we were to be “silent”.

*blank stare*

I’ll just wait here while that sinks in.

Yup. Me. Seventy-five minutes. Silent.

There were many, many, many challenges during this, my very first, yoga class, but above all else not talking was the hardest.

No giggling. No joking. No witty banter with my NS BFF. No asking questions! Heck, we could barely make eye contact for fear of bursting out in uncontrollable belly laughter.

Challenge extended.

Challenge accepted.

Mission accomplished.

Achievement unlocked.

I *totally* did it and as per the manifesto I did not die. (Go me!)

In retrospect, a seventy-five minute hot yoga class in a silent room is probably not the best choice for a newbie. On the other hand, it really was something completely new and since remedial yoga is not a thing, one really must embrace the idea that everyone – no matter how amazing now – once had a first time and also felt awkward and confused.

I absolutely loved the energy of the people who are running Moksha Bedford. Our instructor was excellent. I believe that they believe deeply in what they do. You can feel that when you speak with them. I was made to feel comfortable and welcome and that means a lot!

There is a tank shirt hanging in the entryway that reads “Practice Makes Practice”. I think this sums up the philosophy of the kind folks at Moksha… perfectly.

Balance is tricky at the best of times… take away my orthotics and well.. tip me over and pour me out!

All kidding aside, who wouldn’t like to have this kind of power, strength and fitness? Wow!

Holy Ashtanga! Amazing!

So, have you tried anything new lately? Are you a fan of yoga? Do you practice yoga on a regular basis? What advice would you give to someone about to attend their very first class? Do you like your yoga regular or extra crispy?

That is to say, I had nothing nice to say, so I was saying nothing. (It’s in the manifesto, so…)

It was for the best, really.

Now, here we are a full week later and I can honestly say that even though some things are still “kooky” I feel much better now.

It’s Easter! It’s Spring! It’s sunny! The world is filled with newfound joy that comes each year on this day. The Easter Bunny found us and brought lots of nice chocolate for Thing 1 & Thing 2, some fun and unique old fashioned candy treats and a few new sunny weather items. There’s nothing like some new sidewalk chalk, sunglasses and a fedora to make everything right in the world of a child. (and a parent*… seriously.. gleefully happy with the fedoras!)

All day I have had a song in my head. It’s my happy, springtime, hopeful song. May I share?

Okay. First though, you should know that these lyrics have been ingrained in my brain since I was about 12 (Thing 1’s age!) and the reason I know them is because I was blessed to have an amazing, smart, funny, excellent, musically talented, music teacher, choir director (and later, English Lit. teacher (See? Awesome, right?), but I digress..) when I was a kid!

Isn’t it reassuring? Watching the buds appear?

Isn’t it great? Spring to await!

Watchin’ the landscape rejuvenate! Oh,

Doesn’t it lift your spirit? Doesn’t make you glad?

Isn’t it keen? Viewin’ the scene!

Watchin’ the grass turn green!

The winter’s gone now and the snow!

Seeds burstin’ below!

Cold’s over at last!

And everything’s starting to grow!

Doesn’t it make you happy? Doesn’t it make you see?
Part of the plan, given to man,
ever since time began?

But nevertheless, I can confess, just between you and me,
That it’s good to see it happening, so nice to see it happening
So great to see it happening

Anew! Anew!
And reassuring toooooo!

Easter, always seems to bring with it the exact kind of weather Easter deserves. It comes just in the nick of time after a long winter and this year, quite frankly, a rather sketchy start to spring.

Today was a great day to be outside, so after all the Easter Bunny shenanigans and a nice brunch, that is exactly where we went. We headed to one of our favourite local parks, near the water, and played, walked, wandered, explored, enjoyed nature, collected shells and rocks, took pictures and made friends with a snail!

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Despite the earlier stresses of the week, I had a great time. I really am a nature baby. I need it. So do my Thing 1 and Thing 2. I would argue so do *all* of you, too, if pressed. I will try not to be too bossy, though, and just strongly suggest that if you missed an outing today you have a shot at another tomorrow. (Don’t make me come over there. Go outside and play!)

Thing 1 & Thing 2 love this play structure.

Thing 2 sliding a new way. You can’t do these “tricks” at school!

Thing 1 was sideways seconds before the camera *clicked*.

Bedford Basin is Beautiful.

Some nice, flat stones for skipping.

Exploring at the water’s edge.

Looking for that elusive “perfect” flat rock.

Three little snail pals on a big rock.

That’s a skip!

Lots of ducks in the Basin today. Some were *ahem* dating.

BARNACLES!

Can you see the pretty opalescent colours inside this mussel shell?

Thing 2 ready to launch.

I really love it here. Truly.

Trees make me happy.

One last swing trick!

Thing 1 made this little rock sculpture.

And reassuring, toooo!

Yes.

So, tell me, how was your day? Do you celebrate Easter? Are you celebrating Passover? Are you happy it’s spring and the weather is finally starting to show it?

*The Easter Bunny was very kind, as he is every year, and brought one small, very good quality, dark chocolate bunny, each to Daddy-O & me**.

**This year the ol’ EB also got wise and brought some special, high protein, healthy snacks for me. Go, EB! You rock!

You might be surprised how often Calvin & Hobbes could be credited with giving me the best life advice and spiritual guidance.

Remember way back* in the beginning of this blog how I swore I’d be better. I’d be kinder to myself and I would improve my life in as many ways as possible, not the least of which being my fitness level and over all health? Mmm hmm.

Easier said than done**.

My feet have been rather stOOpid*** of late and that has made walking difficult – forget any attempt at a C25k program which I really, really want to do. I have decent shoes, I have orthotics, I am really good about remembering to stretch before starting my day. Despite my best efforts and plans, my left foot is being a complete and utter jerk. It hurts. A lot.

So much so, that I have not walked, for fitness sake, with my NS BFF all week. Not good.

But that’s no biggie, you might be thinking, there are LOTS of things you can do for exercise without your feet.

It’s true. There are.

Have I been doing those things? No. No I haven’t.

I have been having a bit of a pity party. “Pity? Party of one?” *raises hand* Ugh.

It happens. It’s okay. I’m over it. It’s time to kick into gear.

Thank goodness I have friends who support and love me – just the way I am.

Thank goodness I have a husband who loves me, laughs at my jokes, tolerates the awful puns and always makes me feel like I can do whatever I want (even when I am not so sure).

Thank goodness both of the above have wicked awesome senses of humour and willingly share their own “funny ha ha” as often as possible.

This Saturday began with an early start. I like early starts on Saturdays. It helps squeeze even more happy out of one of the already happiest days of the week.

The plan was in place for a little adventure with my NS BFF and there was a very exciting citrus fruit delivery scheduled, too! After the crazy, seemingly never-ending winter, we were at risk of scurvy at Chez Peady, so this was a very exciting delivery indeed!

See? Gorgeous Minneolas. Totally worth waking up early on a Saturday, wouldn’t you agree? They are like sweet nectar of the gods and have the added benefit of allowing us to live a scurvy free life! Yay!

Even as these delicious Minneolas and yummy Red Grapefruit were being delivered by a very kind friend and her girls, the weather tried to dampen our moods. It began to rain.

Ice.

Yes. Honest to Citrus! It started freezing raining! Thank goodness the fruit was already in my possession or I might have cried.

So, with ice pellets falling and a sweet friend and her darling girls off to make more deliveries I was walking on citrus sunshine!

My NS BFF was supposed to arrive shortly thereafter and I had a lot of fruit to stow, so I got to work (meaning I dropped off the boxes and let my husband figure it out while I got ready to go out for the morning), but then received a text from the aforementioned BFF. “Rain check?” (Isn’t she a hoot?) We tossed around the idea of skipping our outing, but decided we would go anyway and rely on the weather forecasters’ ability to keep us safe. Yeah. We are risky like that!

Thankfully, the weather turned to just plain rain and we made it to our destination without incident. We also had the pleasure of catching some amazing CBC programming from the East Coast Music Awards – which are being held in beautiful Charlottletown, PEI – on the way. (How awesome is David Myles?)

Here are some of the wonderful things I saw (and possibly ate*) (Who’s to say?) on this – my very first – visit to the Alderney Landing Farmer’s Market in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

Bread. Oh. My. Word. You can bet these baskets were empty by days end!

This was a nice touch. Live bees in action.

BEES!!

The wonderful fruit of their labour. There were a LOT of different flavours!

Lots of interesting sights and sounds.

Delicious Saronn’s Kitchen Fresh Peanut Dressing.

Such a lovely display.

Look at these salad rolls. Yum!

Amazing peanut dressing.

So many yummy choices!

Turkish temptations.

Apple Cider from “the” Valley.

Coffee!

Pat’s Preserves on the shelf at Noggins.

Maritime classic.

Fun things for the kiddos! This was about to be an octopus.

A treat to eat? Nope, soap. Yum!

The most aptly named soap company ever. This stuff smells sooooooooo good. All of it!

We had a great time wandering around the market and checking out all the vendors. I was quite surprised that there was so much in there and such a great variety of goods. From art to apple cider and photography to fudge and lots of things in between, this little gem on the Dartmouth waterfront is definitely worth checking out.

So, how was your Saturday? Do you have a favourite day of the week? Or a day that just seems best for getting good work done?

Are you just so ready for spring to *actually* spring? Or has spring started springing up where you are?

I’m happy to report that today was sunny and there are definite signs of spring popping up each day.

Oh, April darling. You are the funniest month yet. I just can’t get enough of your amazing sense of humour and jovial, bringing-all-the-yuks-all-the-time ways.*

Yes. It is April Fool’s Day. Yes. Atlantic Canada is having another spring storm. Oh, I know that it’s “winter” weather, but a few days ago in a brief moment of clarity, in the 35 minute window of calm, before yet another storm front, a friend decided maybe Spring was feeling snubbed with all the “Winter” storm reporting and was merely waiting for a mention, to take its place in the limelight, so I stopped saying winter. Yes. Even though there was a blizzard blowing outside my window.

Did it work?

It totally did!

APRIL FOOLS!!!

Of course it didn’t work, because this winter is NEVER going to end. EVER!

We are at home yet again. It’s Tuesday. That’s a refreshing change** from Wednesday, isn’t it? The school buses were cancelled and as per our policy*** so, too, was school.

We knew there would be freezing rain today, but we really didn’t believe it would be followed by more snow and blowing snow and falling snow and snowing snow and snow snow snow snow snow! Oops! Sorry. Forgive me. It’s all been a bit much to handle.

Thank goodness for Things who know how to entertain themselves****, a husband who can work from home when the weather is stormy and a sense of humour that is firmly in place, because otherwise I would absolutely be adopting hermitage as a valid life choice. I live pretty close to the edge of hermitage, these days, anyway. I mean, it’s not like I can go anywhere in this yucky weather and we have enough cereal for a Seinfeld episode, so we won’t starve. Maybe we should just take that final leap?

Welcome to the new YMC Community location on Hoth. Hoth Coffee. Hoth Mummy. Both Cranky.

Oh, ha ha! April Fool’s! Good one!

Wait. What?!

Isn’t *that* the question on everyone’s mind?!

Blowing snow. Miserable.

Not great visibility.

Glad to be inside.

More of the same.

Can we see buds through the snow and ice?

Is it better that they are not encrusted in ice?

This was after an overnight and all morning freezing rain fest!

It’s easier to see snow against something dark, like the souls of Maritimers who are just *so* sick of snow. 🙂

**There has been a “weather event” every Wednesday since December (pretty much) in The Maritimes.

***It’s in the manifesto!

****There was a Disney Channel marathon, some CPU time, an awesome animal rescue invention building session, some reading, a game of “Guess Who? Mix n’ Mash”, and a rousing game of “Can You Escape?”. Yup.